Abstract
Purpose :
The Butterfly iQ (BiQ) is a new ultrasound (US) device that can be connected to smart devices. It contains new US-chip technology that replaces the traditional US transducer technology to emulate different probes creating an all-in-one US probe. Limited reports have systemically characterized the portable US devices in image quality and interpretation agreement in ocular imaging. This is a cross-sectional masked study comparing the sonographic image quality between the BiQ portable ultrasound device and B-scans on the Ellex Eye Cubed at the University of Ottawa Eye Institute. We hypothesize that the BiQ will be as effective as our gold standard in terms of image quality and finding accuracy.
Methods :
Research participants had both ultrasound procedures performed on their eye during a standard of care ophthalmic visit. First, the ultrasound procedure was performed with the Ellex Eye Cubed followed by the BiQ. Still images and video clips were captured and deidentifed from both US devices. These images were presented in random order to five blinded graders, who rated the quality of the images on a ten-point Likert scale for the following criteria: resolution, detail, image quality and diagnostic confidence.
Results :
Mann Whitney U and Post Hoc comparison test was done. Seven participants have been recruited to date. The BiQ average score and standard deviation (SD) for resolution respectively are 3.98 and 2.30. For detail, the average and SD were 3.95 and 2.29. Image quality average and SD are 4.07 and 2.33 and the diagnostic confidence scores were 3.5 and SD of 2.36. The Ellex Eye Cubed average and SD for resolution are 8.25 and 1.21 respectively. For detail, the average and SD were 8.13 and 1.33. Image quality average and SD are 7.96 and 1.5 and the diagnostic confidence scores were 7.19 with an SD of 2.49. Patient recruitment is ongoing.
Conclusions :
Our findings show that the quality and interpretation agreement with the BiQ is lower compared to the Ellex Eye Cubed. In addition, the BiQ probe is larger and heavier compared to the Ellex Eye Cubed which limits maneuverability and peripheral views that may be blocked in participants with deep set eyes. Despite the limitations, the scans suggest the BiQ could be used for gross ophthalmic exams. Its low cost and portability make it useful for emergency clinics and remote areas.
This abstract was presented at the 2023 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in New Orleans, LA, April 23-27, 2023.